What is your favourite beach holiday location in the world? The Maldives? The Caribbean? A Greek Island? Thailand?
All of these places are magical places to spend a week or two unwinding and recalibrating, soaking up some sunshine and good vibes, and enjoying the hospitality and local cultures.
However, we are going to suggest you add Abu Dhabi to your bucket list of the world’s best beach holiday destinations. Here, we’ll let you in on all the reasons why Abu Dhabi has everything to rival the above, and more.
- Its Dazzling Coast
Abu Dhabi’s coast lies on the Persian Gulf. A quick look at a map would show you that the Persian Gulf is a waterway running from Iran down to the Arabian Peninsula before meeting the Gulf of Oman.
The Persian Gulf is known for its warm waters which support a plethora of marine life, like tropical fish and sea turtles. Coral reefs are found here, too. It’s no wonder that the Persian Gulf is a popular destination for divers. The water is very clean, with most beaches boasting Blue Flag certification for water safety.
Abu Dhabi nestles within a particularly beautiful stretch of Persian Gulf coastline. Alongside the city’s dazzling skyline, two natural features help to make it a very striking location. The area is dotted with tranquil islands and peaceful mangrove forests that provide lush greenery and shade, and separate the sea from the desert beyond. Natural wonders and secluded beaches can be found just a stone’s throw from the city.
- Its Warm Welcome
The Persian Gulf is of great historical, cultural and economic importance. The waterway has carried countless seafarers into the heart of the Middle East dating back to times of ancient kingdoms. The area’s trade links with the rest of the world have been established for many centuries and this helps explain the outstanding Arabian hospitality and the warm welcome you’ll get.
Abu Dhabi can offer its guests the finest hotels and luxury accommodation, spectacular restaurants featuring both international and Arabian cuisines, and all the finishing touches you’d expect from a luxury break. The city has well-organized tourism, with spectacular cultural sites, museums, theme parks, malls and more. Visitors are welcomed with open arms.
- Its Breathtaking Beaches
Picture azure waters stretching miles out to the horizon, inviting you to dip your toes in. The water glistens under all-year-round sun and, in the distance, you spot a dolphin or turtle. You can feel the pristine white sand beneath your toes. Behind you, palms line the beach, and you can hear their soothing rustle in the gentlest of breezes. Beyond, the marvel of the modern skyline takes your breath away.
This is a typical Abu Dhabi beach, where the city meets unspoiled nature.
Outstanding beaches are plentiful here. Some beaches are closer to the city than others. They are perfect if you wish to combine a vibrant city break with lazier beach days. The city centre beaches, such as Corniche Beach, feature amazing amenities and quick access from key tourist areas. Corniche Beach is a large, sandy public beach adjacent to the boardwalk and gardens. It’s incredibly popular with locals.
Other beaches are much more secluded and private, and set up for the perfect luxury break. With these beaches, you’ll be closer to nature. Saadiyat Island features the best beach in Abu Dhabi. Just a 30-minute drive from both central Abu Dhabi and the city’s airport will get you to this natural paradise. The area has an exclusive, laid-back feel that is perfect for a luxurious vacation.
- Its Luxurious Extras
Abu Dhabi prides itself on going above and beyond for its guests. On an Abu Dhabi beach holiday, you can therefore expect beach resorts with every detail thought of, every little luxury, and the very finest service. You’ll find havens of tranquility with all your needs and wishes taken care of.
There are plenty of places to escape the crowds. Saadiyat Island is home to an exclusive beach club, for example. Both members and day visitors can indulge themselves with spa treatments, fine dining, or a dip in the beachside infinity pool. Private cabanas float gracefully, giving you and your companion the time and space to fully relax. Alternatively, gaze out at the horizon from the beach loungers, listening to the lapping waves. Order a drink and sit back.
- Its City Backdrop
Abu Dhabi beaches’ unique advantage over many other luxury destinations is that they have the most incredible city right by it. This means that you can spend your day indulging in doing very little beachside, but spend your evenings making the most of a plethora of five-star restaurants, upmarket bars and nightspots. The city’s skyline at night makes a jaw-dropping backdrop for a memorable meal or late-night cocktail.
You can also immerse yourself in more cultural and tourist attractions in Abu Dhabi than at most beach holiday destinations. For art and culture lovers, there are The Louvre Museum’s diverse and international art collection, the exquisitely detailed Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, and the unmissable Emirati Palace Qasr Al Watan.
If you want to let your hair down, then the city’s theme parks are world-class. Ferrari World Abu Dhabi and Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi welcome you with record-breaking rides and experiences. Most Abu Dhabi entertainment venues offer upgrade options such as queue-beating passes, private spaces, and exclusive experiences.
Just beyond the city, you can also explore the vast desert landscape. Desert safaris with optional nights under the stars are an ideal add-on to a beach holiday. You’ll find just as much peace and tranquility as you would at the beach – and with five-star hospitality, too.
Your Next Luxury Beach Holiday
Luxury beach holidays promise a week or two of absolute bliss in a stunning, sunkissed location. If you are looking for a place to switch off, admire the scenery, immerse yourself in local culture, and enjoy the finest foods, Abu Dhabi is the ultimate destination. Here, you can feel the sand beneath your toes and treat yourself to all the finer things in life.
